Chain gang.

Like all other SRAM chains we sell, the
PC-971 has bulged outer plates and chrome-hardened pins. It's a notch
down from their PC-991 since it lacks the nickel plating on the inner
plates and instead has raw steel. So although, it's a bit more
susceptible to the elements, it doesn't sacrifice performance in
comparison to the PC-991. It may not be as pretty, but it's a good bit
less expensive. The outer plates are nickel plated for corrosion
resistance. The SRAM PC-971 comes with a gold-colored PowerLink
connector to make assembly and disassembly easy, a big plus for people
who devote regular attention to their chains. It will work with all
9-speed drivetrains.

Comment on iBryonD's review:

Easy to use, bullet proof chain

Familiarity:
I've put it through the wringer

This chain was a breeze to put on, and has proven to be great quality. I have been riding on it since the start of this spring in the Wasatch. I have confidence that this chain will get me to the end of many more trails.

Have an answer for nrap1153036?

College Budget, Professional Performance

Familiarity:
I've put it through the wringer

Sram's 70 lineup has been a staple in my stable of bikes. Between cassettes and chains, I find it to the best trio of performance, weight, and their friend money. The 1070 chain seems to have a bit more nickel plating compared to the 1050 for better wear and durability in my experience. Sram's Powerlink makes installation and trailside repairs really simple, but I find myself worshiping the concept the most when taking the chain off my bike to degrease.

Comment on Kevin K's review:

Makes life easier

A very strong, durable chain. I love that I can use the powerlink to safely break the chain for removal and cleaning. I might try a 991 model if I could find it on a closeout or something, but the 971 is more than sufficient for normal use and costs about half as much. I carry two extra powerlinks and a couple extra inside links in case I have to do trail side repairs.

Comment on AnOnYmOuS's review:

SRAM chains - consistently good

Always happy with SRAM chains. Glad Backcountry had a 9-speed in stock. I've always struggled though with how to disconnect the Powerlink on a chain though - usually resorted to using a chain tool the old fashioned way. Found out this week my problem - I was trying to use the pliers one the link along the line of the chain - what someone showed me is the importance of using the pliers diagonally across the link, so you push opposite corners. Easier with long nose pliers - hard to describe in words, but hopefully this makes sense...

This too was my experience. I also learned that these chains are not meant to be put back together with a chain tool. Not saying it can't work, but when I tried, the chain snapped about 6 feet from the car. I fixed it only to break again several miles back in the woods. Got a new chain and learned how to use the powerlink- no issues since.

Comment on Andrew Dudle's review:

Treat your Whip right

As a good rule, when ever you start updating your drivetrain or building a new one never use an old chain. Old chains are the ghost in the machine. Recently I bought a brand new crankset and and picked up this chain as well. You could spend the extra money on the lighter 991, but you will be giving away some valuable strength. The 971 is the perfect choice for your SRAM drivetrain, strength, function and price are at there best with this chain.